Engaged - what does 4/5 mean when written

[Galmum]

I thought I resolved this yesterday on MN, but then spoke to someone last night who thought that 4/5 written in the notes actually means that:
1/5 of the head is in the pelvis and 4/5 can still be felt. i.e you're working down the scale as the baby drops.
I've now found websites that say both...anyone clear it up once and for all?
I know it does n't really matter but I'm sooo excited!

[katyjo]

I haven't a clue, but I'm sure someone will.
So excited for you!
Have a merry christmas!
XXX

[kiskidee]

yup, 4/5 is way down. 5/5 means you are about to pop.

[lulumama]

1/5 in the pelvis, 4/5 is palpable above the pelvic brim......0/5 means head on the pelvic floor!!! so starting to engage........!! great !

[lollipopz]

yeah agree with lulu 1/5 in pelvis this is what was written on my notes this week (4/5) too and the m/wife said head pretty high

[Galmum]

Thanks for clearing up.

To be honest I'm pretty chuffed with 1/5 in the pelvis, seeing as I'm only 35 weeks today and it's my second.

It really has cheered me up.

I'm hoping that this baby is getting ready to come out and we can avoid being induced, as the baby is measuring big.

[snugglebumnappies]

Depends if the mw has wrotten palp or eng, 4/5 eng is most of the head in the pelvis, 4/5 palp is top of the head in the pelvis, clear as mud?!!

[snugglebumnappies]

Of course I meant written!!

[SnafuOutOfHiding]

4/5ths should mean 4/5ths of the head is still palpable, i.e. 1/5 of the head is in the pelvis.

It's all a pretty inexact science though - one person's 4/5ths is another person's 2/5ths ime

[Galmum]

Clear as mud!!

I'm going with 1/5 in pelvis, 4/5 palpable. It sounds more logical, considering that I'm only 35 weeks with baby no 2. I'll ask the doc next time I see them on 5th Jan - I suspect we'll be having the when to induce discussion, as I'm having a growth scan again the day before. How big can this turkey get!!

[JodieG1]

Don't forget that babies (especially when it's not your first) can go in and out of the pelvis. I was 2/5 palpable at 34 weeks but then the week later the baby's head was completely free. Currently 37+2 and having another check on Thursday.